In view of the recent weather forecast predicting rain and snowfall from 5th to 7th October issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, convened an urgent meeting with officials from key departments to review preparedness and mitigation plan.

The meeting was attended by HoDs &  representatives from R&B, MED, BEACON, NHIDCL, Urban Local Bodies, IMD, and the Horticulture & Marketing Planning Department.

During the meeting, Divisional Commissioner instructed concerned departments to ensure immediate deployment of personnel and machinery at critical locations to facilitate swift snow clearance.

He stressed the importance of completing the tendering process for the winter snow clearance plan by October 31, and directed the deployment of trained and experienced machinery operators to avoid damage to road infrastructure.

 He urged use of High Molecular Weight Polyethylene plastic in snow plows to enhance efficiency and minimize road wear.

He laid focus on the timely restoration of road connectivity to remote and border areas, including the Mughal Road, which serves as a crucial link during winter months.

Meanwhile, Div Com also directed the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) department to ensure advance stocking of ration, LPG, and petroleum products in remote border areas.

Additionally, he emphasized the need for advance distribution of October’s ration to consumers and instructed that a 15-day buffer stock of LPG be maintained in the Kashmir Valley to prevent shortages.

To facilitate the movement of goods, he recommended optimal use of the Mughal Road for the transportation of LPG and dispatch of apple produce.

Director of Horticulture Marketing & Planning was advised to encourage fruit growers and traders to utilize railway services for apple transportation, ensuring faster and more economical movement.

To ensure coordinated and timely response to any weather-induced emergency, the Divisional Commissioner directed the immediate operationalization of the Divisional Control Room for better coordination and synergy among field departments.